Losing a loved one is a traumatic experience, especially when it happens due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. In such cases, families can file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for their losses and hold the responsible party accountable. The purpose of a wrongful death claim is to compensate the family for their losses, both economic and non-economic. Economic damages may include medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, and future financial support that the deceased would have provided. Non-economic damages may include emotional pain and suffering, loss of companionsh ..read more

In Tennessee, the law recognizes the unique and influential role grandparents play in their grandchildren’s lives. Grandparents can seek visitation rights or even custody of their grandchildren if it serves the best interest of the child. Understanding visitation rights The court considers several factors to determine grandparents’ visitation rights, including the existing relationship between the grandparent and grandchild, the emotional ties and the impact on the child’s well-being. The law specifically allows for grandparent visitation under the following scenarios: The child has lost their ..read more

Finding police at your doorstep can invoke feelings of intimidation and confusion about the correct response. Understanding your rights enables you to appropriately and confidently handle situations when law enforcement shows up at your door. Do you have to open the door if Tennessee police come knocking? The answer depends largely on the situation, such as whether the officers hold a warrant, are addressing an emergency or are conducting an investigation. When officers bring a warrant If Tennessee police arrive with a valid search or arrest warrant, they legally can enter your home. However ..read more

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a common aspect of divorce proceedings. It seeks to provide financial support to a spouse who may face economic struggles post-divorce. In Tennessee, the court recognizes several types of alimony. Each serves a different purpose and addresses various financial needs. Understanding the different types of alimony is helpful for anyone navigating divorce proceedings and seeking financial stability post-divorce. 1. Transitional alimony Transitional alimony assists a spouse in adjusting to the financial realities of post-divorce life. It typically continue ..read more

Being pulled over and questioned by police can be an unnerving experience. You may wonder if officers can legally search your car without permission. The answer depends on the circumstances, but there are times when police can search your vehicle without a warrant or consent. When the police may search without permission In general, the Fourth Amendment requires police to get a warrant before searching your vehicle. However, some exceptions allow warrantless vehicle searches in certain situations. If officers have probable cause to believe there is evidence of a crime inside your car, they can ..read more

Car accidents can result in a range of injuries with profound impacts on daily life. While many associate crashes with common injuries like broken bones or whiplash, lesser-known issues, such as nerve damage or neuropathy, can also arise. Nerve damage may vary in duration and be either temporary or permanent. If you sustained nerve damage in a car crash, you might qualify for compensation. Peripheral neuropathy Peripheral neuropathy affects the nerves in the extremities—arms and legs. Car accidents can cause direct trauma or compression, leading to tingling, numbness or weakness in affected ar ..read more

Did you know that windy weather can make driving more dangerous? Negligent driving, which means not paying enough attention or being careless, can be especially risky when it becomes windy. People should understand why windy conditions make driving more hazardous and why it is especially important to be cautious on the road during windy weather. Understanding the hazards Strong gusts can affect a vehicle’s stability and control, making it more difficult for the driver to stay safe. The wind can push a car sideways, making it harder to steer and stay on the road. This can lead to accidents, lik ..read more

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation estimates that some type of drug use is a factor in as much as 80% of crimes in Tennessee. Drug charges can have serious consequences, and navigating the legal system can be confusing. While some drug offenses are misdemeanors, others may fall into felony territory. Knowing when this transition happens is important for anyone facing drug charges. Difference between felonies and misdemeanors In Tennessee, the distinction between a felony and a misdemeanor often rests on the type of drug, the amount involved and the individual’s criminal history. Misdemeanor ..read more

The road is a place of constant movement and potential danger, and many spinal cord injuries stem from motor vehicle accidents. The impact of such injuries extends far beyond the physical harm, shaping lives in profound and often irreversible ways. Understanding the link between car crashes and spinal cord injuries is important for both implementing preventative measures and improving the safety of the nation’s roads. A substantial link A notable connection exists between car crashes and spinal cord injuries. The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center reports that 38.52% of all spinal ..read more

Nearly every U.S. state has some form of open container law. The basic principle behind the law is that it’s illegal for vehicle occupants to consume alcohol or have an open container of an alcoholic beverage while inside a vehicle. Some states only prohibit drivers from possessing an open container, while other ban both drivers and passengers. Where does Tennessee lie in this? Drivers penalized for open containers According to state law, it’s illegal for drivers to drink or possess an open container filled with an alcoholic beverage while operating a motor vehicle. The offense is a Class C mi ..read more